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Enchanting Irish Elopement: Alex & Mike’s Forest Ceremony in Early Spring
We’re obsessed with forest elopements, so when we came across this breathtaking Irish elopement shoot, we knew it had to be featured on Bespoke Bride. We caught up with Shauna Ward from Wild and Green Photography—the creative genius behind the lens—to uncover the magic behind the images. And if you’re dreaming of your Irish elopement in the forest, stick around for our top planning tips!
Wild and Green Photography
Wild and Green Photography
Wild and Green Photography
Alex and Mike
“Alex and Mike from Massachusetts eloped in Ireland in early February, just when the early signs of Spring were starting to show.”, Shauna tells us. “The daffodils and greenery were beginning to bloom and it was a beautiful day. The whole day was planned in just three weeks, as they booked their trip last minute and decided to just go for it!
Wild and Green Photography
Wild and Green Photography
Wild and Green Photography
They stayed at CastleDargan Hotel in Sligo where they prepared for their elopement adventure. They shared vows and exchanged rings in an emotional ceremony, and had their first dance, deep in a forest, completely alone.
Wild and Green Photography
Wild and Green Photography
Wild and Green Photography
I took them around all my favourite spots in the North-West of Ireland, so they could explore the most stunning scenery Ireland has to offer. They explored lakes, mountains, waterfalls, a coastal castle, and some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. They finished their day with pints of Guinness in the Rusty Mackeral a traditional Irish pub in Donegal, where they shared their wedding story with the bemused local fishermen.”
Wild and Green Photography
Wild and Green Photography
Wild and Green Photography
The Magic of an Irish Elopement: Wild Romance in the Land of Legends
Ireland is practically designed for elopements. Maybe it’s the misty cliffs, the rolling green hills, or the fact that every ruin seems to whisper old love stories. Having covered Irish elopements for years, I can tell you one thing: they are never just a ceremony. They are an experience—a deep, immersive plunge into nature, history, and a bit of that famous Celtic magic.
Things to Know Before Planning Your Irish Elopement
Legalities & Logistics
Let’s start with the practical bit. You can’t just show up and say your vows; there’s paperwork involved. If you’re coming from outside Ireland, you’ll need to notify the civil registrar at least three months in advance. Symbolic ceremonies offer more flexibility if you’d rather skip the paperwork and just soak in the moment.
Weather-wise, Irish skies have a mind of their own. A sunny morning can turn into a misty drizzle by lunchtime. This unpredictability adds charm but also means you need backup plans—umbrellas, sturdy shoes, and an attitude that embraces the unexpected. Some of the most stunning wedding photos I’ve ever seen happened because a couple leaned into the elements instead of fighting them.
Choosing the Right Setting
There’s a reason elopements here feel like stepping into a fairytale. The ruins of an ancient abbey? A dramatic sea cliff? A quiet meadow where the only witnesses are sheep? Each setting tells its own story. From my experience, couples who choose a spot with personal meaning—maybe a place tied to their ancestry or shared memories—end up with the most unforgettable elopements.
Photographers in Ireland know how to work with the ever-changing light and weather, so invest in someone who specializes in outdoor weddings. I once covered an elopement at the Cliffs of Moher where the mist rolled in just as the couple said their vows, creating a scene so cinematic it felt scripted. Turns out, Ireland doesn’t need filters.
The Magic of a Forest Elopement in Ireland
Now, let’s talk about the real hidden gems: the forests. If coastal cliffs feel a little too exposed or castles too structured, a forest elopement offers a secluded, intimate escape where it’s just you, the trees, and the ancient energy of the land.
Best Forests for an Enchanted Irish Elopement
- Killarney National Park – Think moss-covered ruins, ancient yew trees, and a lake that seems to reflect another world. This place has hosted some of the most ethereal ceremonies I’ve seen.
Watch this lovely elopement in Killarney:
- Glendalough, Wicklow – A valley wrapped in mysticism, with a medieval monastic site in the middle of it. The way the morning light filters through the trees here is pure magic.
- Glenveagh National Park – If you want dramatic landscapes with towering pines and wild mountain backdrops, this is your place. For more info about it – read this.
- Tollymore Forest, Down – For couples who secretly wish they were eloping in a fantasy novel, this is it. Winding stone bridges, ancient woodland, and Game of Thrones-worthy scenery.
- Ballycroy National Park – Wild, untamed, and perfect for couples who want their elopement to feel like a walk through an untouched fairytale.
The Pros & Cons of a Forest Elopement
Pros:
- Privacy – Unlike busy tourist spots, forests give you peace. Just birdsong and the sound of leaves crunching underfoot.
- Natural Canopy – No need to worry about rain when the trees have your back.
- Atmosphere – There’s something about a forest that makes everything feel more ancient, more sacred.
Cons:
- Logistics – Some forests have limited access, meaning a bit of hiking might be involved. A lightweight dress and solid footwear are a must.
- Lighting – Forests can be dim, so make sure your photographer knows how to work with the natural light.
- Midges – Tiny, persistent, and always ready to crash your wedding. Bring repellent if you’re eloping in summer.
I once attended a forest elopement where the couple used lanterns and candles to create a soft glow around their ceremony spot. By the time they exchanged vows, the sun had dipped low, and the whole place looked like an enchanted glade. Moments like that make all the planning worth it.
Final Thoughts
Eloping in Ireland isn’t just about getting married—it’s about stepping into a story. Whether you choose a misty mountaintop, an ancient castle, or a quiet forest clearing, the key is embracing the experience fully. Let the wind tangle your hair. Let the rain kiss your skin. Let Ireland work its magic on you.
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